Crossing gatehouses are elevated structures along rail lines that house a gateman who manually raises and lowers the crossing gates to stop traffic when a train approaches. Compact and functional, these buildings provide a clear vantage point for monitoring the tracks.Crossing gatehouses are elevated structures along rail lines that house a gateman who manually raises and lowers the crossing gates to stop traffic when a train approaches. Compact and functional, these buildings provide a clear vantage point for monitoring the tracks.